Wednesday, April 29, 2009

It's being reported today that Carrie Fisher's autobiographical solo show Wishful Drinking will open on Broadway at Studio 54 this October. Fisher leaves no stone unturned about her life as she delves her razor sharp wit into every aspect: from being the child of two major stars (Debbie Reynolds and Eddie Fisher), to pop culture icon/nerd sex symbol as Princess Leia in Star Wars, through her battles with drugs, alcohol and depression. Carrie's evening has also been published in book form, and her story is so hilarious to read, I cannot wait to see it live. The show has been touring various venues throughout the country to considerable success, with the hopes of coming to NY. This will mark Fisher's first appearance on Broadway since a replacement stint as Agnes in Agnes of God back in 1983. Carrie made her Broadway debut as a teenager in the chorus of her mother's revival of Irene in 1973. Flop enthusiasts will remember Fisher from the 5-performance bomb Censored Scenes from King Kong in 1980. Fisher has gone to a stellar career as a writer and actress, including her recent Emmy-nominated guest spot as Liz Lemon's idol on 30 Rock. It looks as though we've got our first serious contender for next year's Theatrical Event awards!

Also, a small item in Playbill on Opening Night's first night account of Desire Under the Elms mentions that Matthew Modine hopes to play Atticus Finch in a Broadway production of To Kill a Mockingbird. The article mentions Jeffrey Richards as producer, but there has been no other word about this play. The play itself was originally adapted by Christopher Sergel for use on an academic level; however the writer has frequently revised the work and it is a staple of stock and regional companies throughout the country. It has yet to be performed on a Broadway stage. However, given the definitive nature of the Oscar winning film, it feels as if a stage version isn't entirely necessary. As it is one of my top three favorite books of all time (and one of my favorite films to boot), I'll definitely be there if and when it happens.